French man drowns on Tasmania's east coat

A French man has drowned after being caught in a strong rip on the east coast of Tasmania.

He was swimming at Swimcart Beach in the Bay of Fires Conservation Area on Friday afternoon when he got into trouble and was pulled further out to sea by the strong undertow.

A surfer and other beach-goers tried to resuscitate the man until emergency crews arrived, but all were unable to revive him.

The 29-year-old French national and his companion had been camping in the area.